Frequently Asked Questions: SEI Endorsement

1. Who must obtain a state mandated SEI endorsement?
All classroom teachers, supervisors, principals, and superintendents

2. What do I need? When do I need it?
- If certified before August 31, 2006: For staff certified before August 31, 2006, one semester hour or fifteen clock hours of Structured English Immersion (SEI) professional development will be required, plus an additional 45 clock hours from a state approved SEI completion course to be completed by August 31, 2009.

3. Where is the training for the SEI Endorsement offered?
- Arizona colleges, universities, and through MPS Professional Development
- For a list of state approved courses refer to the Arizona Department of Education website at: www.ade.az.gov/asd/lep (see: Arizona State Board of Education approved SEI Endorsement training)

4. What is the difference between the mandated SEI endorsement and the ESL or Bilingual endorsement?
- The mandated SEI endorsement provides a basic level of understanding or awareness of SEI theory, SEI methods, and the state's English Language Learner proficiency standards (see ARS §15-756).
- The ESL or Bilingual endorsement provides a deeper understanding of second language acquisition theouries, data analysis, and practical approaches for working with English language learners (ELLs). (27 college credits)

5. WIll the new SEI endorsement qualify me for the $1200 or $800 stipend?
- No. No stipend is earned for completion of the SEI endorsement.
- The one-time $1200 stipend and the annual $800 stipend will be paid only to teachers who have completed the full ESL or Bilingual endorsement.